WHY SHOULD I ADD MACA INTO MY SMOOTHIE?

You have probably spotted Maca root powder in the supplement aisle of the supermarket, or perhaps noticed it listed on the menu for superfood smoothie add-ons at a cafe or coffee shop, and maybe you have wondered what this mysterious superfood powder does.

Maca, also referred to as Peruvian ginseng, has been revered for centuries as an enhancer of energy and stamina, and as an unrivaled natural supplement for increasing libido. The reasons for adding Maca into one’s diet are far-reaching.

Maca abounds in Peru, in the Andes Mountain range, and since it is found growing at such high altitudes, this hearty plant is frost resistant and able to withstand harsh temperature conditions. In appearance, it is said to resemble the mustard plant and is often misidentified as such. Maca supplements are produced from the roots of this extraordinary plant. Let’s take a deeper look into some of its reported benefits.

Sexual Desire and Fertility

Maca is known as an aphrodisiac by some, with many reported positive, notable results. It is said to heighten the male and the female libido, making the treatment a natural option for those dealing with an unexplained diminished sex drive and/or impotence. It may also increase testosterone levels and sperm count in men with fertility issues.

Hormone Regulation

Maca is a promising option for balancing hormone levels in all women and is particularly beneficial for those going through menopause and encountering intense symptoms. The unique composition of this root has been determined to lessen the severity of hot flashes and decrease their occurrence. Which, if you ask any woman going through the powerful life transition that is menopause, they will likely be pleased to take all of the hot-flash help they can get! Maca also combats fatigue, which is common during menopause when hormones seem to have gone haywire. For those wishing to avoid synthetic hormone replacement therapies, which often come with bothersome and sometimes debilitating side effects, Peruvian ginseng may present a viable option.

Women experiencing menstrual symptoms such as cramping, PMS, and heavy or irregular periods, may also find relief with Maca supplementation.

Energy and Endurance

Are you finding yourself dragging in the afternoons despite eating healthy and exercising? Because of its adaptogenic (Why Adaptogens?) properties and ability to increase testosterone production, Maca is a natural choice for treating low energy. In fact, Maca is often utilized by athletes to achieve greater endurance and energy levels.

Mood Stabilizing Effects

Are you feeling down, and starting to suspect that what you are experiencing may be more than just a rough patch and is in fact outside of the range of normal? Maca is commonly used by those in natural health circles as a treatment for mild depression, as it has been shown to increase the body’s production of serotonin. Since current prescription depression medications often bring along with them unpleasant side effects, Maca is gaining in popularity as an option for treating mild depression.

Incorporating Maca into Your Diet

Experts suggest starting out slowly when beginning Maca supplementation. Begin by taking 1/2 teaspoon a day to start, and gradually work your way up to a daily dose of one full tablespoon. As you work your way up, tune into your body. If you experience any adverse physical or emotional symptoms or digestive distress, then return to the dose you were taking before symptoms began.

Maca is a very versatile powder that can be added to the diet in a variety of ways. It is advised to only mix Maca with cold food or beverages because heat can minimize the benefits. Blend Maca root powder into a smoothie, mix into pudding, stir into juice, or add to your favorite no-bake sweet recipe.